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FIFA: Fellaini can play for Everton this weekend

15 October 2009 14:59

FIFA decided on Thursday that Marouane Fellaini can play for his club Everton against Wolverhampton Wanderers this Saturday. The Belgian FA had asked FIFA to ban the midfielder for this weekend`s match because Fellaini missed out on the match against Estonia on Wednesday.

The 21-year-old played for his country in the 2-0 win over Turkey last weekend. After that he left the squad for surgery on his wisdom teeth, believing he had the blessing of coach Dick Advocaat.

Earlier this week, though, Belgian officials claimed no such agreement was in place. They then contacted FIFA in order to invoke the five-day rule, which prevents players from playing for their club less than five days after missing an international game.

But FIFA today contacted Everton to confirm the midfielder's availability.

`The Belgian FA did lodge an appeal with Fifa asking them to implement the five-day ruling,` Everton`s head of PR Ian Ross said on the club`s official website.

`However, Fifa have contacted the Club this morning to say that we have no case to answer and that we did comply fully with all necessary legislation.

`We are delighted with the news as Marouane will be available for selection on Saturday.`